Abstract: A photovoltaic module comprising a first substrate, a backing sheet, a solar cell or a plurality of solar cells, each solar cell positioned between the substrate and the backing sheet, at least one thin electrically conducting board positioned between the substrate and the backing sheet and preferably where the module has at least one electronic device, preferably positioned on the electrically conducting board, that provides the module with a desired function or capability.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for installing a solar array on the roof of a residence or the like which uses a pan in the installation of the solar modules that make up the array. The pan may also be used as part of the packaging of the solar modules. The pan is comprised of a length of material having a trough-like cross-section. For packaging, shipping inserts are fitted into the trough of each pan. Opposite edges of a solar module are fitted into respective slots in the inserts of two facing pans and a protector is fitted over each end thereof to form a package for shipping. Once on site, the packages are disassembled, the pans are mounted on the roof, and the modules are connected to the pans to form the array.

Abstract: A junction box adapted to protect soldered electrical connections between outputs and cables wherein the connections are on a flat surface (e.g. the backing sheet of a solar module) and a method for installing the box over the connections. The junction box can have a split housing that can be spread to fit over the cables before filling the housing with a sealant which, in turn, covers and protects the connections. A separate cover is then latched onto the housing.

Abstract: A photovoltaic module having reliable connections between internal electrical terminals and output cables. The module is comprised of a backing sheet and a cover transparent sheet with a bus bar positioned therebetween. A plurality of photovoltaic (PV) cells are connected in series which, in turn, are connected to a positive and a negative terminal on the bus bar. Male connectors are connected to the positive and the negative terminals. The components are then laminated to form the module with the male connectors inside the backing sheet. To expose the male connectors, openings are formed through the backing sheet and the tapered ends of the male connectors are bent outward to be mated with female connectors on the respective cables. The connections are then soldered to provide output connections for the module.

Abstract: A frame system suitable for mounting a solar module on a roof, the frame system comprising at least one frame comprising an upper frame member, a lower frame member a right-side frame member, a left-side frame member, at least one projecting member that is attached to or is an integral part of at least one of the side frame members, and projecting in a direction toward or substantially toward the fewer frame member; and a batten comprising a recess for engaging the projecting member of the frame. The frame optionally comprises a means for affixing the frame to another frame.